Dogs are excellent friends for individuals of all ages, but they’re particularly amazing for senior citizens! Bringing a dog into the house may improve a senior’s physical and emotional well-being in addition to offering unparalleled companionship. For example, according to Harvard Health Publishing, spending time with a puppy may increase serotonin levels in the brain, which are “feel-good” hormones, and reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
The benefits of retirement for a dog owner are double-edged! A lot of seniors spend most of their days at home or have more flexible schedules, which allows them to spend more time with their closest buddy.
Senior pet owners often choose to adopt a calm, already-trained older dog, even though they may find appropriate furry buddies of any breed, age, or size. Many people find success with even-tempered, low-maintenance bigger dog breeds or smaller, portable types. Finding the ideal fit, as usual, is contingent upon a dog’s particular activity level, grooming requirements, and other critical characteristics. See our selection of the top ten senior-friendly canines!
1. Shih Tzu
Shih-tzu-in-grass
The graceful Shih Tzu thrives when given plenty of love and care. This friendly breed gets along well with youngsters, too, so when the grandkids come to town, they make the ideal playmate!
Temperament: The Shih Tzu is a loving dog that likes to spend time with its pet parent, whether it is by snuggling or going wherever with them. Furthermore, this breed is kind and accepting of other people and animals. While snoring is uncommon, most Shih Tzus are quite quiet dogs.
Grooming: Although Shih Tzus don’t shed much, frequent brushing and the occasional professional haircut help them maintain their adorable, bouncy appearance.
Exercise: If a pet parent takes their Shih Tzu for a daily walk, the lapdog will be content to spend the remainder of the day relaxing.
Fun fact: “Shih Tzu” means “little lion” in Mandarin, despite the fact that this breed is not aggressive at all.
2:Pug
pug-in-grass
For seniors who would rather cuddle up on the couch with their cherished pet at their side, pugs are the ideal canines. This breed spends most of its time playing and relaxing indoors. The Pug’s respiration might be impacted by severely hot or cold temperatures because to its flat face and short nostrils.
Temperament: Pugs are affectionate and obedient to their pet parents. They also like to snooze, however they often snore as they do. They are generally laid-back pets that want to please their owners, yet they may sometimes get enraged or jealous when neglected. Happy-go-lucky mixtures of Puggs also make great selections!
Grooming: This breed has a short coat that requires little maintenance other than the odd brushing. The Pug does, however, shed a lot and have wrinkles close to its eyes that need regular cleaning.
Exercise: For the laid-back Pug, quick walks and inside or outdoor play sessions are enough.
Fun Fact: According to The Daily Wag, a bunch of pugs is dubbed a “grumble,” perhaps because to the snorting and nasal noises they produce!
3. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
a corgi in grass
The vivacious and adventurous Pembroke Welsh Corgi, also known as the “Corgi,” is a fantastic fit for more active seniors who like outdoor adventure such as strolling on nature trails. Children, adults, and elderly people all fall in love with Corgis because of their adorable small legs and sparkling eyes.
Temperament: The outgoing Corgi’s lively and joyful nature makes this dog stand out. It wants to be involved in every event. Corgis make great watchdogs because they are loyal to their family and protective of them. This active breed may bark if they are left alone for an extended period of time or if they don’t get enough activity.
Maintenance: Although the Corgi’s double coat is easy to comb or brush, it sheds a lot. Consequently, regular grooming aids in preventing hair from getting on floors and furnishings.
Exercise: Several daily walks are necessary for this nimble breed. Furthermore, Corgis are naturally inclined to love tasks that need completion. As a result, this breed values mental stimulation in general and dog play toys in particular.
Fun Fact: According to Reader’s Digest, since taking the throne in 1952, Elizabeth II, the present Queen of England, has had around 30 Corgis.
4: Poodle
Poodle in the Grass
One of the greatest canines for senior citizens who are looking for a canine companion that is simple to teach is the very clever Poodle. Poodles need a lot of exercise in order to burn off extra energy and keep their polite manners. To accommodate every taste, this breed is available in three sizes: Toy, Miniature, and Standard.
Temperament: Poodles flourish in households with couples since they are devoted friends who create close ties with many family members. They like being spoilt and have a lighthearted sense of humor. One of the most intelligent puppy breeds, this one is also proud and submissive! Poodle hybrids, like the Labradoodle and Cockapoo, can make wonderful animal companions.
Cleaning: Poodles are hypoallergenic and have less shedding. But every month or so, this breed’s long, fashionable hair requires expert maintenance and frequent combing.
Exercise: The lively and muscular Poodle thrives on plenty of exercise, whether it’s swimming or taking long walks.
Fun Fact: According to PetMD, despite the fact that the Poodle is said to have originated in Germany, its great love among French people has led to its designation as the country’s national dog.
5: French Bulldog
french bulldog in the lawn
The happy French Bulldog, sometimes known as the “Frenchie,” is a wonderful pet companion for an older person as they are simple to take care of and satisfy. It’s difficult to resist this charming, unique breed!
Temperament: The witty French Bulldog loves to give and receive affection! This utterly endearing species is intelligent, inquisitive, and lively, and it gets along with both people and other pets. Bulldogs and Frenchies both have a tendency to snort and snore.
Grooming: The short, shiny coat of the French Bulldog is easy to groom and doesn’t shed much. This breed’s face has wrinkles that need be cleansed often.
Exercise: French Bulldogs shouldn’t engage in strenuous outdoor activities due to their reduced muzzle. It will work if they accompany their pet parent on short walks or errands around town. Plus, Frenchies feel extra special when they spend time together!
Fun Fact: American breeders from the 20th century established the current standard for the appearance of the French Bulldog. The “rose-shaped ears” that fold back in the middle and resemble a rose in appearance would have been bred out of Frenchies if it weren’t for them. Rather, they have the recognizable “bat ears,” which are rounded at the tip and face forward.
6. Tiny Schnauzer
tiny schnauzer in the grass
The elegant Miniature Schnauzer offers their elderly pet parent the best company and dedication. Miniature Schnauzers get along well with grandchildren because, like Shih Tzus, they are tolerant with youngsters and love to play!
Temperament: The personality of this breed is amiable, gregarious, and robust. Miniature Schnauzers are vigilant dogs who keep an eye on the home. They are family-oriented and protective of the people they love. In addition, these animal companions are well-behaved and fast learners.
Maintaining Grooming: Miniature Schnauzers are a hypoallergenic, low-shedding dog breed. They have a double coat that has to be brushed often and professionally groomed to stay in great condition.
Exercise: This energetic breed likes to work out every day in company. Longer walks with pet owners or games of fetch in the yard are ideal choices.
Fun Fact: The beard of this breed has traditionally had a function in addition to being adorable! The Miniature Schnauzer’s beard provided a line of protection against rats and other small animals in case they retaliated, since they were bred specifically to hunt them on farms.
7: Greyhound
greyhound in the grass
The Greyhound, the world’s quickest canine breed, may not seem like the ideal companion for senior citizens. But after it gets its exercise, this athletic dog is laid back, peaceful, and happy to lounge about the house. Additionally, greyhounds are the perfect pet for older adults who would rather have bigger, but still manageable, pets.
Temperament: The noble greyhound makes a calm, kind, and gentle companion. Part of the attractiveness of this breed is that it is autonomous and might be reticent around other people. Due to their intense desire to hunt, greyhounds should always be kept under constant supervision and on a leash while outside.
Grooming: The sleek, short coat of the greyhound has to be brushed from time to time.
Exercise: The long-limbed, slim Greyhound is a sprinter who gains by having a confined space where they may run in short spurts. Because of its short stamina, this breed is content to unwind after a run.
Fun Fact: According to Camp Greyhound, greyhounds have remarkable 270-degree vision, which enables them to perceive things up to a half-mile distant as well as those behind them.
